Mi*nor"i*ty (?), n.; pl.
Minorities (#). [Cf. F. minorité. See
Minor, a. & n.]
1. The state of being a minor, or under
age.
2. State of being less or small. [Obs.]
Sir T. Browne.
3. The smaller number; -- opposed to
majority; as, the minority must be ruled by the
majority.